While a headache is not necessarily life-threatening, it can distract when you are behind the wheels. Here are some natural methods to reduce the pain and prevent a recurrence.Headaches are a common complaint. Sometimes, they can be so severe that you feel like your head is about to burst. When headaches become persistent, you should consult a doctor. Thankfully, in most cases, they tend to be tension headaches, with pain ranging from mild to moderate. While it may be tempting to pop an over-the-counter painkiller, you could also try getting rid of them naturally, using the following home remedies.

Stay Hydrated
The importance of keeping well hydrated is widely known; unfortunately, many of us don’t put it into practice. Chronic dehydration can be an underlying cause of tension headaches and migraines. Drinking water has been shown to relieve such headaches; in fact, you ought to feel better within 30 minutes to three hours of consuming water. It would be wise to carry a water bottle around with you and sipping from it all day. Eating water-rich fruits and vegetables, such as watermelons and cucumbers, is also helpful, especially in our hot, humid climate.
Get Enough Sleep
Lately, the importance of getting adequate sleep has been receiving plenty of airtime. Indeed, according to one study, people who get less than six hours of sleep a night tend to incur more frequent and severe headaches compared to those who sleep longer. That said, sleeping too much can be counterproductive, causing headaches instead! For optimal rest that staves off headache — it is recommended that you try to have seven to nine hours of sleep a night.

Try a Cold Compress
Applying a cold or frozen compress to the head or neck area reduces inflammation, slows nerve conduction, and constricts blood vessels in the area, reducing pain from headaches. While such packs are available at local pharmacies, consider making your own by filling a plastic bag with ice and wrapping a soft towel over the bag. Press it to the forehead, temples, or the back of the neck for pain relief.Do Some Exercise
We all know that exercise is beneficial, but did you know that you can actually reduce the frequency and severity of headaches by engaging in physical activity? Research shows that too little exercise can spur headaches in adolescents. Regular and moderate exercise, such as brisk walking or cycling, can keep headaches at bay.

Drink Caffeinated Beverages
The next time you feel a headache coming on, drink some tea or coffee, both of which contain caffeine. If you take it early enough, it could ease your pain. Some medications for headaches also contain caffeine, which improves their efficacy. Caffeine improves mood, increases alertness, and constricts blood vessels, all of which can have a positive effect on headache symptoms. Don’t overdo it with the caffeinated drinks, though, ascaffeine withdrawal can trigger a headache, too!

If a headache comes on while you are driving, gauge its severity. If it is severe, pull off the road and call a friend or a loved one to come and get you. If it is fairly mild, it should be safe for you to stay on the road until you get to your destination.